National Federation Party’s provisional candidate for the 2018 general election, Romanu Tikotikoca has withdrawn his provisional candidacy of the NFP as he proceeds to clear his name following the rape allegations in 2014.

Tikotikoca has stated that this is a matter of integrity purely for him and his family and not of NFP.

He says from Sunday to date, the FBC and the Fiji Sun have been prominently reporting allegations that during his tenure as Fiji’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Tikotikoca purportedly raped a maid working at the High Commissioner’s residence.

Tikotikoca says he absolutely and categorically denies the allegation.

He says this is a complete fabrication and lie. 

Tikotikoca says it is a despicable attempt to defame his character and bring ridicule and contempt to him and his family.

He says he will pursue legal action against both the FBC and the Fiji Sun.

NFP Leader Professor Biman Prasad has confirmed that they have received a formal notification from Romanu Tikotikoca, withdrawing his provisional candidacy of the party.

Professor Prasad says they have accepted Tikotikoca’s reasons for the withdrawal and believe it was the right thing to do following allegations levelled against him.

When questioned by Fijivillage on the rape allegations earlier today, Tikotikoca said that these are unsubstantiated claims.

When asked on whether he can confirm whether he paid money to the maid after the allegations, Tikotikoca said that this is not a matter of confirming as he has given his statement and that’s it.

It is alleged that no charges were laid and the question also arises on whether Tikotikoca was given diplomatic immunity if there was an allegation.

Sources within the Fiji Police Force say that they have contacted Papua New Guinea Police about the allegations and the Director CID there said they are aware of the allegation.

We are currently trying to speak to PNG Police.